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    SANDALS® RESORTS TAKES THE ROMANTIC PULSE OF AMERICA, COINS 2023 ‘THE YEAR OF WE’

    Couples are optimistic about their relationships and intend to make more time for their partners in 2023 according to a recent survey by the Sandals Institute of Romance Sandals Resorts’ trend-house responsible for analyzing and spotting the latest global news in modern love, relationships, and intimacy. Surveying more than 1,000 adults across the United States in partnership with Wakefield Research, the data points to major trends, expectations, and other factors impacting relationships, passion, and connection in the year ahead.
    The trend report revealed that romantic experiences remain a top priority despite an uncertain economic outlook and the hard reality of inflation. People expect to be far busier in 2023 than they were in 2022, and they’re making difficult choices about how much they spend, prioritizing immediate needs over frivolous ones. And yet, when it comes to spending their ever-shrinking dollars on romance, a majority say they don’t plan to forfeit gifts, getaways, and activities that strengthen connections and fuel intimacy.
    What will romance look like in 2023?
    For starters, couples are cozying up to a new year with optimism, with 89% saying their relationship will get better or stay the same in 2023. According to the survey, 4 out of 5 Americans 18 and older (80%) plan to make more time for romance, and nearly 3 in 5 (58%) say rising costs won’t derail their plans for a romantic vacation, as most Americans intend to find the time as well as the funds.
    For many, what is considered romantic has evolved and changed over time, with 81% percent saying that they find romance has changed in the last decade. As for what’s romantic in today’s modern world, two-thirds (67%) say a getaway for two would be a particularly romantic gift and the top choice for partners in 2023.ADVERTISEMENTThe survey went on to reveal that more than gifts, sharing experiences is proving to be the ultimate love language. Watching the sunset (55%), trying new restaurants and shops (52%), and adventurous outings (51%) also top the list of what’s most romantic.

    “The definition of romance varies from couple to couple, but there’s a common thread to a thriving relationship and that is to be intentional about making the time for connection,” said Marsha-Ann Donaldson-Brown, Sandals Resorts’ Director of Weddings & Romance. “The findings from our latest love study are invigorating and compelling, as Americans confirm their commitment to nurturing their relationships in the coming year – which is why we’re celebrating 2023 as the ‘Year of We.’ Getting away from daily life, free from distractions and stresses, inspires people to focus on what matters most, with the majority of couples agreeing they feel closest to each other while on vacation – and moreover, how this time away energizes the relationship beyond the trip.”
    The Sandals State of Romance in 2023 survey went on to reveal much about the romantic pulse of America this year. See the full report here, with findings including:
    Couples Plan to Make Time for Romance in 2023, Despite Tight Schedules
    80% of respondents expect to be busier in 2023, with 2 in 3 (66%) acknowledging it is challenging to find the time for romance. Still, the vast majority (80%) are committed to making more time for it in 2023, with 31% strongly agreeing.The top obstacles for romance are finding the right setting (41%), financial constraints (38%), work (34%), social obligations (24%), and children (23%).For Boomers, finding time for romance isn’t as difficult, with 45% saying it is not challenging, compared to 32% of Gen X, 24% of Millennials, and 25% of Gen Z.76% of parents say it is challenging to find time for romance. Even in light of this, 88% of parents say they will make more time for romance in 2023, compared with 75% who are not parents.In Lean Times, Many Say Romantic Getaways Are Non-Negotiable
    58% of respondents wouldn’t let inflation stop them from taking a romantic vacation, and 42% say that romantic activities would be among the last things to cut back during an economic downturn. Moreover, almost two-thirds of those who have been on a romantic vacation in the past year (64%) refuse to let economic factors stop them from taking one in the future.To help eliminate obstacles, at least temporarily, and create more time for romance, Americans are ready to pack their bags, with the majority saying a getaway is long overdue. Of the 63% who say they are likely to take a romantic vacation in 2023, Millennials are the most restless; 79% say they are likely to take a romantic trip in 2023.Vacations Are Key to Connection and Intimacy

    A majority of Americans (51%) say the closest they’ve felt to their romantic partner is when they’re on vacation together.When it comes to romantic vacations that deepen connection, Americans prefer a relaxing beach vacation (67%), especially women (72%) and Gen X (74%).49% view 5 to 7 days as an ideal amount of time for a romantic vacation. Over a week-long romantic vacation, 30% would anticipate being intimate with their partner 3 or 4 days during the trip, and more than a quarter (26%) anticipate being intimate each day of the trip.Nearly three-quarters (73%) say intimacy is more satisfying when they’re on a romantic getaway. And, that satisfaction doesn’t end when the vacation ends: 80% prioritize intimacy with their partner upon returning home from a romantic trip.48% of Millennials say romantic vacations impact their intimacy by making them more adventurous, compared to 28% of Gen X, and 23% of Boomers.Surveying past guests as well as global travelers in committed relationships, the Sandals Institute of Romance’s data is designed to drive the development of integrated on-resort programming, innovative partnerships geared towards enhancing the guest experience, and expert relationship guidance for couples before, during and after their Luxury Included® vacation.
    an gifts, sharing experiences is proving to be the ultimate love language. Watching the sunset (55%), trying new restaurants and shops (52%), and adventurous outings (51%) also top the list of what’s most romantic.

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    Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons Unveils New Collection of Disney Princess-Inspired Gowns

    Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, together with Allure Bridals, have launched their 2023 collection of stunning bridal gowns and their first-ever collection of Disney Princess-inspired bridesmaid dresses. The 2023 collection includes gowns inspired by Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Rapunzel, Snow White and Tiana. Twenty-one gowns were unveiled during a fashion show in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort in California. They feature new and innovative fabrics, including a signature sparkle tulle on a Princess Jasmine-inspired Platinum gown and a laser-cut lace design on soft satin featured on a Rapunzel-inspired style. A Cinderella-inspired ballgown offers a unique platinum colorway option, while a dreamy vintage look for the Princess Tiana-inspired gown, shimmering with thousands of beads and sequins, captures the spirit of the Jazz Age.
    Disney and Allure Bridals launched their first sophisticated bridal line in 2020, offering modern brides stunning, on-trend gowns that capture the style and spirit of beloved Disney Princess characters. Three years and four collections later, Allure Bridals provides various options that can truly transform a bride’s look, like the stunning, detachable overskirts available on a selection of gowns, including one Rapunzel-inspired dress and the Platinum Cinderella dress. Platinum Aurora and Tiana gowns feature detachable sleeves for a chic transitional option from aisle to reception. With exquisite details such as ethereal puff sleeves, and dreamy accessories like custom veil options and delicate tulle flowers, the Disney Fairy Tale Weddings 2023 Collection has a dress for every bride’s style. All bridal gowns are available in sizes 0 to 30 and start at $1,799.
    In a highly anticipated expansion beyond bridalwear, the Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection will introduce nine princess-inspired bridesmaid gowns for the first time this Fall. The bridesmaid collection is inspired by the personalities and essence of Disney Princess characters and stories, incorporating subtle design cues meant to complement each Princess-inspired bridal gown. Available in a dazzling range of colors and romantic fabrics like stretch chiffon, stretch satin, and stretch satin jersey fabric in sizes XS to 4X, the bridesmaid collection is a welcome addition to the Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings 2023 Collection. More details will be revealed in the coming months.
    A New Coach to Debut at Disneyland Resort
    ADVERTISEMENTDisney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons has also unveiled the design of a new coach that will join the fleet of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings carriages. The new coach features details inspired by the classic Disney love story, Cinderella, and will arrive at Disneyland Resort this fall. Handcrafted details include a pumpkin canopy and an interior shrouded in delicate vines. The new coach at Disneyland Resort will round out the trio of carriages that include the Cinderella Coach at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and the Disney Fairy Tale Carriage at Disneyland Paris.
    Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Celebrates 100+ Venues Around the Globe
    Couples marrying with Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings can celebrate their wedding ceremonies and receptions in iconic Disney locations around the world. There’s the enchanting Disney’s Wedding Pavilion at Walt Disney World Resort, theme park lands and attractions, a stunning beachfront resort in Hawai’i, the ships of Disney Cruise Line and so much more.
    “Our goal is to bring fairy tales to life. Immersive and one-of-a-kind venues allow us to tell each couple’s unique love story in an epic and magical way,” said Korri McFann, marketing director, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons.
    In honor of the 100th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings is showcasing more than 100+ wedding venues at Disney destinations around the globe:
    Walt Disney World Resort offers more than 50 unique and magical venues spanning international settings at EPCOT – from Italian courtyards to a replica of China’s Temple of Heaven, to a backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, couples are immersed in vibrant settings like Harambe Village in Africa, the Belvedere Palace Ruins hidden in the jungles of Asia and many more. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, couples can dance the night away on Sunset Boulevard, and at Magic Kingdom Park, they can live out their dreams with views of Cinderella Castle. In addition, numerous resort locations feature beach settings, intimate gazebos, lush lawns and so much more.Disney’s Wedding Pavilion is a purpose-built wedding venue at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in Walt Disney World. Situated on its own private island in Seven Seas Lagoon, the pavilion is accessed via a bridge and features stunning crystal chandeliers, intricate stained-glass windows and a 75-foot aisle with Cinderella Castle as its backdrop.Disneyland Resort offers magical in-park venues, from the Victorian splendor of Main Street, U.S.A. to the Fantasyland Courtyard. The resort’s themed hotels offer even more beautiful venues. There’s the rich Arts & Crafts setting of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and the whimsical fun of the Disneyland Hotel.Beach Resorts – Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and Disney’s Vero Beach Resort boast tropical and waterside settings for couples to celebrate their weddings with a touch of Disney magic.Disney Cruise Line provides couples the chance to sail the high seas with their families and friends. From Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, to beautiful ship atriums, and international itineraries, event possibilities can be magical.Disneyland Paris – from castle courtyards to romantic gazebos, Disneyland Paris offers immersive fairy tale settings for couples dreaming of marrying in the city of love.Asia Parks – Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings also take place at Shanghai Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Resort – each offering magical backdrops for wedding celebrations.To learn more about the new bridal and bridesmaid collections, visit www.allurebridals.com. For information on booking a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or vowel renewal, visit DisneyWeddings.com.

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    Rosewood Returns to its Roots with Stunning New Residential Tower in Turtle Creek, Dallas

    Turtle Creek, Dallas, is where the Rosewood story began. A peaceful, walkable neighborhood surrounded by grand parks and close to Dallas’s most celebrated sites, it’s not only one of the most coveted residential communities in the country, but also home to the brand’s first property: the iconic Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. Now, the globally-recognized leader in luxury lifestyle returns to the neighborhood with a landmark new offering, Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek, a standalone residential development that will set a new standard for high-rise living in Dallas’s metropolitan landscape.
    The new 17-story tower, which combines Beaux-arts inspired elegance with a wealth of outstanding amenities, will comprise approximately 46 residences offering effortless luxury in a setting that’s perfectly appointed for experiencing everything Dallas has to offer. Developed by One Turtle Creek to reflect the best of this dynamic city, the property is scheduled for completion in early 2025, with sales to commence in 2023.
    The Location
    Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek occupies a prime location in Dallas’s Turtle Creek Corridor, a historic neighborhood nicknamed “Dallas’s Front Yard”. Nestled between fine parks and close to the Katy Trail, it’s a secluded but enviably connected destination just minutes away from the beloved neighborhoods of Highland Park, Uptown and Downtown. Thanks to its peaceful ambience, it has been favored as an exclusive residential enclave throughout the 20th century, and boasts many fine examples of modern and contemporary architecture.The Design
    Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek reflects Rosewood’s A Sense of Place™ philosophy by embracing Turtle Creek’s beautiful setting and illustrious history in its architecture and design. The building, masterminded by Chicago-based architect Lucien Lagrange, offers a contemporary spin on the Beaux-arts inspired American architecture of the early 20th century, welcoming residents and their guests at its base with an elegant arched entryway before soaring upwards to embrace the sky with its asymmetric summit. Balancing the artful with the approachable, the tower will showcase Lagrange’s sophisticated style and singular approach to craftsmanship, dimension and detail. Ranging from approximately 2,000 to 6,380 square feet, with the option to combine units for an even more spacious abode, each light-filled residence will make the most of the surrounding area through distinctive architecture detailing. Of note will be the ceiling-height windows, stretching from ten to over twelve feet tall, that offer immersive city or park views. Interior schemes from renowned designer Dan Fink will continue to draw upon the colors, tones and quality of light along Turtle Creek’s nature-filled waterway to create harmonious living spaces that complement the building’s striking neoclassical sensibility. Fink’s canvas will further include the building’s many shared spaces, which will balance luxurious materials with a mix of feminine and masculine tones to create a harmony between the classical and the modern.ADVERTISEMENTThe Lifestyle
    Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek has been conceived with the highest standards of enriched living in mind. Its wealth of exclusive amenities includes a rooftop oasis complete with an infinity pool and lounge, each boasting spectacular views of the Dallas skyline; a landscaped garden for intimate gatherings and events, and a fitness center, library, and private dining room spaces. The building will further feature a first floor lounge, full time concierge, and valet. Pet friendly offerings, meanwhile, include a dedicated dog park, pet spa, and garden. As hospitality is a defining factor of the Rosewood experience, residents will also benefit from round the clock support from a dedicated Rosewood Residential Team. This group of experts with deep knowledge of the area, will manage all aspects of the Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek experience to provide residents with a wide range of additional services.
    A Tribute to Turtle Creek
    “Given the symbolic significance Dallas holds for us at Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, we are thrilled to be bringing our residential concept to this market,” said Brad Berry, Vice President of Global Residential Development at Rosewood Hotel Group. “Planting the Rosewood Residences flag in the same neighborhood as our very first hotel is a great moment for us as we continue to grow our footprint. But, of course, Turtle Creek is a special setting in its own right, and I think these one-of-a-kind residences embrace the area’s natural beauty, rich history and incredible location, and provide residents with an unrivalled quality of life in Dallas.”
    “With this project, we are realizing our vision of bringing timeless architecture together with exceptional service in the upscale residential neighborhood of Turtle Creek,” says developer Preston Cheng of One Turtle Creek. “This hasn’t been done before in Dallas, and to do so with Rosewood, renowned architect Lucien Lagrange, and AD100 interior designer Dan Fink, adds another level of excitement.”
    For more information about Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek, please visit www.residencesturtlecreek.com.

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    Hyatt Announces Entry into Tokyo with the Opening of Hyatt House Shibuya in Mid-2024

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    Hyatt Announces Entry into Tokyo with the Opening of Hyatt House Shibuya in Mid-2024

    Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with Tokyu Land Corporation for Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya.Slated to open by mid-2024, the 126-room hotel will be an ideal mid- to long-stay living accommodation situated just steps away from the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya will mark the entry of the Hyatt House brand in Tokyo, further demonstrating Hyatt’s intentional brand growth in the Asia Pacific region.
    Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya will make guests feel genuinely at home with an elevated, spacious, and perfectly self-sufficient experience close to offices and commercial facilities in Shibuya. The Sakuragaoka area, just southwest of the Shibuya station where the hotel will be located, is being redeveloped as part of a major transformation of the Shibuya district, one of Tokyo’s most popular areas for entertainment, shopping, fashion, and dining. The area’s diverse new urban facilities will enhance Tokyo’s international competitiveness and create an ideal living and working environment for overseas guests.
    Each of the hotel’s 126 spacious guestrooms, ranging in size from approximately 344 to 915 square feet (32 to 85 square meters), will offer home-like amenities including a well-equipped kitchen, washer and dryer, plush bed, and cozy living room. The lobby will face an airy rooftop garden and the property will feature an indoor swimming pool, lounge, H Bar, and restaurant. In addition, Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya’s communal space, Fitness Room, and other facilities will be designed to appeal to modern, self-sufficient travelers who appreciate relaxing, socializing and working as if they were at home.
    “We are pleased to welcome Hyatt’s Hyatt House brand to the redeveloped Shibuya Station area, a project in which Tokyu Land is participating,” said Tatsuaki Tanaka, Director & Managing Officer of Tokyu Land Corporation. “Shibuya is both an active business district populated with many offices and a popular recreational district offering Tokyo’s latest entertainment, and Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya will allow international travelers and locals alike to enjoy unique and iconic Shibuya experiences. We hope that this wonderfully convenient and exciting location will provide guests with fulfilling lifestyles for work and leisure as we continue to revitalize the overall area.”
    “Shibuya is known around the world as one of the dynamic facets of Tokyo, and Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya will play a vital role in the major redevelopment around Shibuya Station,” said Sam Sakamura, Hyatt’s vice president Japan and Micronesia. “We are honored to work with Tokyu Land Corporation on this once-in-a-lifetime project and look forward to the debut of the Hyatt House brand to Tokyo while providing travelers a home away from home.”ADVERTISEMENTOnce open, Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya will be the second Hyatt House-branded property in Japan, joining Hyatt House Kanazawa in Ishikawa prefecture, as well as a global portfolio of more than 125 locations worldwide.
    For more information, please visit hyatthouse.com.

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    Biometric Technology Takes Over: Seamless Travel from Check-In to Boarding at Frankfurt Airport

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    Biometric Technology Takes Over: Seamless Travel from Check-In to Boarding at Frankfurt Airport

    Beginning this year, passengers traveling through Frankfurt Airport (Fraport) can breeze through the various steps in the journey – from check-in to boarding – simply by scanning their faces at biometric touchpoints across the airport. This solution will be rolled out and available to all interested airlines at the airportThe implementation will see additional biometric touchpoints installed by spring 2023. From enrollment at a kiosk or counter, to pre-security automated gates and self-boarding gates, passengers can use biometric technology to seamlessly pass through each stage of the journey by simply scanning their face.
    The project breaks new ground in the development of digital travel by providing a true common-use biometric platform at all Fraport terminals, open to all airlines operating at the airport. It combines day of travel enrollment, Star Alliance Biometrics, and additional biometric hubs under the umbrella of the SITA Smart Path platform.
    For Lufthansa passengers specifically, thanks to the integration of SITA Smart Path with Star Alliance Biometrics, the technology makes use of the biometric identities of Lufthansa passengers enrolled on Star Alliance’s platform, enabling seamless identification of passengers without additional process steps across multiple participating airports and airlines.
    This implementation plays a key part in paving the way for the rollout of biometrics across Star Alliance’s global network, as it endeavors to have more of its 26 member carriers using biometric technology progressively. Key learnings from the Fraport project will be considered for further implementations across the network.
    The NEC I:Delight digital identity management platform, which is fully integrated with SITA Smart Path, ranked No.1 several times as the world’s most accurate face recognition technology in vendor tests conducted by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). It allows passengers who have opted to use the service to be identified quickly and accurately, even on the move. Passengers who do not wish to use the solution can check in using a traditional check-in counter.ADVERTISEMENTDr. Pierre Dominique Prümm, Member of the Executive Board and Executive Director Aviation & Infrastructure, Fraport AG, said: “Emerging from the pandemic, passengers are embracing technology to boost efficiency and place them in control of their travel. We are extremely excited to be able to transform the experience for all our passengers across all terminals and carriers with one simple, intuitive solution. We also value that SITA and NEC’s innovative technology allows our infrastructure to be truly future-proof, with the capacity to grow with us as industry demands and travel patterns shift.”
    Sergio Colella, SITA President for Europe, said: “We are delighted to be working with key industry players to bring the benefits of biometric technology to passengers everywhere. With this implementation, Fraport is leading the industry in responding to shifting passenger demands for greater autonomy and convenience, while helping to maximize operational efficiencies.”
    Jason Van Sice, Vice President for NEC Advanced Recognition Systems said: “We have a wealth of experience combining our technical know-how with SITA’s understanding of the air transport industry. We are proud to be upgrading Lufthansa and Fraport customers’ experience with next-generation biometric technology, and we applaud Star Alliance’s initiative to bring these benefits to its broader network.”

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    IATA and Somalia Government Deepen Cooperation to Boost Aviation’s Economic and Social Benefits

    The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia agreed to deepen and formalize cooperation with the aim of strengthening the economic and social benefits of aviation in SomaliaUnder an agreement signed by Kamil Alawadhi, IATA’s Regional Vice President, Africa and the Middle East, and H.E. Fardowsa Osman Egal, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Federal Republic of Somalia, a new framework was established that will also see an expansion of IATA’s activities in the country.
    “Aviation is a significant contributor to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), so the potential for a strengthened air transport sector to contribute to Somalia’s development is enormous. This agreement aims to realize that potential for social and economic development by focusing on global standards and best practices. H.E. Minister Fardowsa Osman Egal has a strong vision for a successful aviation sector to contribute to a more prosperous Somalia. And we are determined to support that by turning the words of our agreement into real actions,” said Alawadhi.
    The agreement provides the framework to support IATA’s mission for aviation in Africa: the creation of a safe, efficient, sustainable, and economical air transport sector that generates growth, creates jobs, and facilitates international trade and tourism as well as playing an essential role in supporting the UN SDGs through generating connectivity between nations.
    “Aviation is essential to the success of Somalia’s development plans.  The Government of Somalia is committed to developing its air transport sector to help promote long-term social and economic growth in the country. And we will ensure that global best practices are at the core of development. This agreement will pave the way for closer cooperation on the priorities for aviation in the country,” said Egal.

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    PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 to Showcase Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

    The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is set to organise the PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 (PDFM 2023) in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia from June 21-23.The event, generously supported by Sarawak Tourism Board, is composed of four components: destination experiences, a conference, a B2B adventure travel trade show with 1-1 meetings, and various networking opportunities. It provides an opportunity for tourism professionals to gain first-hand practical experience and knowledge in marketing and managing attractions, tourism products, and services that are relatively unknown by both trade and consumers to a global audience in a responsible and sustainable manner.
    “At PATA, we continue to focus on bringing greater depth and value to our events, understanding that, more than ever, delegates are more focused on four aspects when attending events: trading, networking, learning, and socialising,” said PATA Chair Peter Semone. “As the travel and tourism industry in the Asia Pacific region is seeing positive signs of recovery, the inaugural PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023 looks to highlight the best practices in destination marketing and destination management in support of a responsible and sustainable recovery for the region. We all look forward to welcoming you to Sarawak, Malaysia.”
    Focusing on Ecotourism, Gastronomy Tourism, Adventure Travel, Wellness (particularly Sensory Nature Activities), Destination Management and Digital Marketing, the three-day programme begins with a one-day destination experience through a choice of technical tours, followed by a conference and travel mart spread across two full days, as well as various networking opportunities throughout the programme.
    With gastronomy tourism being one of the themes of the PATA Destination Experience Forum and Mart 2023, Sarawak Tourism Board CEO Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor said the theme suits Sarawak perfectly, as its capital city Kuching was recognised as the “City of Gastronomy” by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in 2021.
    “Sarawak’s diversity in ethnicities and culture has created a wealth of authentic dishes and food that are staples of the indigenous households, passed down through generations, making Sarawak not only a destination rich with nature and culture, but also a place to enjoy and relish in variety of local foods,” said Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor.ADVERTISEMENTThe year 2022 has been a thriving one for Sarawak tourism as the industry has seen a substantial surge in tourism arrivals since the region opened its international borders in April 2022, with the rise of “revenge travellers” ticking off Sarawak from their wish-list and the increasing demand for ecotourism-based destinations, such as national parks and nature reserves, post-pandemic.
    Kuching is the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia, located along the southwest tip of the island of Borneo, the third largest island in the world. A vibrant city well known for its immersive culture, adventure, nature, food, and festival elements; it makes you feel at home away from home. Visitors can enjoy pristine rainforests, meet gentle orangutans, spot the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia, check out the second largest museum in Southeast Asia, the Borneo Cultures Museum, and find the rare proboscis monkey endemic to Borneo at the oldest national park in Sarawak, Bako National Park.
    Registration is now open for buyers, sellers, and conference delegates. Interested delegates can register now and enjoy a Super Early Bird Rate and receive a 15% discount off registration fees until February 15. Afterwards, delegates can enjoy an Early Bird Rate and receive a 10% discount until March 15.
    Following the event, delegates can extend their stay and visit the Rainforest World Music Festival, which takes place from June 23-25. Event delegates will receive complimentary access to the first night of the festival on June 23 as well as a discount on tickets to access the full event during the weekend of June 24-25.
    For more information about the event, please visit www.PATA.org/pata-destination-experience-forum-and-mart-2023 or email [email protected]

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    Lynn McClelland appointed CEO of dnata Catering and Retail Division in UK

    dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, announced the appointment of Lynn McClelland as Chief Executive Officer of the company’s Catering and Retail division in the United Kingdom.In her role, Lynn will head dnata’s catering and retail operations at 18 airports across the UK. Under Lynn’s leadership, dnata will continue to deliver world-class culinary services and innovative products that enhance passenger experience and contribute to customers’ business objectives. dnata currently provides quality catering and retail services to 38 airlines with a team of over 3,000 dedicated professionals in the UK.
    With significant experience in previous executive roles, including Head of British Airways Global Catering and Director of Worldwide Operations for IAG Cargo, Lynn has delivered large scale change in a wide range of positions within both the transport and food industries. Lynn will begin her role with immediate effect.
    Robin Padgett, Chief Executive Officer of dnata Catering and Retail, said: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Lynn with dnata Catering UK. Lynn brings a wealth of international experience and has a demonstrable track record in building high performing businesses and teams, driving operational excellence, understanding our customer’s needs, as well as financial and change management.
    “With her broad expertise and passion for culinary excellence,  Lynn is well-positioned to lead our dedicated team and help dnata’s customers deliver on changing traveller expectations and needs.”
    dnata’s flight catering operation uplifted 50.5 million meals in the period April to September 2022, a sharp increase of 204% compared to 16.6 million meals in the equivalent period in 2021.As one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel and catering & retail services at over 130 airports in more than 30 countries across six continents.ADVERTISEMENT

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